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I am looking to replace my 12-year old Goodman Performance 90 gas furnace (cracked heat exchanger). I've narrowed my choice to either a Carrier Comfort 92 or Trane XR-90. As the secondary heat exchanger on my old unit failed, I am particularly interested in the material used for the secondary heat exchanger on the two units- Serpentuff polypropolene-coated for the Carrier and Stainless Steel for the Trane. Should I be concerned that the polypropolene-coated heat exchanger might go the way of my current system? Or will it perform comparably to the stainless steel?

I'm also considering replacing my AC at the same time (same age as the furnace). Am I being premature in replacing the AC or does it make sense to take care of both at the same time? If I do decide to replace the AC, should the coil material be a consideration (copper in Carrier Performance 13 vs. aluminum in Trane XL14i)? Also, I believe the Trane uses a scroll compressor; any idea whether the Carrier does also?

Finally, any other info I should consider in deciding between the two? Consumer reports gives Trane the nod regarding reliability; is the Carrier a satisfactory alternative? Any comments on the above questions would be greatly appreciated.

My opinion is not in any way biased by the fact that the company I work for only sells Trane, really!

Seriously, both manufacturers put out quality products, have strong distribution and dealer networks and have great techincal support behind thier dealers, go with the best contractor.
This isn't like purchasing a car or a TV where the operation of the product is not affected buy who you buy it from.
The quality and reliability of an HVAC system is almost totally dependant on the quality of the installation and correct application.

p3aedo

In answer to your question, I work on all brands,and from my personal opinon Trane would be the way to go.The local Carrier warehouse we have to deal with rapes us on parts cost when we have to use o.e.m.ones.I don't know if it's a regional thing or what.But to be honest we aren't a Carrier dealer and that may be why.It seems their parts cost more compared to otherbrands that we don't sell either.Keep in mind that many components in most all H.V.A.C. equipment is made by others(Honeywell for instance)so that should level the playing field, The way and quality of the install should be a big consideration.Get as many references on the installing contracter you can.Hope this helps.

at 12 years it would pay to replace the intire system and any problems you had with the old system should be dicussed at this time to and taken care of if possible
trane and carrier have been arround for years and will be for years to come. they are both good units and either one will do you right. find a contractor with a good rep and one you trust. the units are good and both reliable as long as the contractor is to

Re: p3aedo

Originally posted by always learnin The local Carrier warehouse we have to deal with rapes us on parts cost when we have to use o.e.m.ones.

No way they only wanted to charge me $550.00 for a 20 ton package unit blower motor last year, I did not buy it there for two reasons they did not have it and I forget the KY went to Grainger saved enough there to pay a truck note.

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Experience is a hard teacher because she gives the test first, the lesson afterwards". -Vernon Law-